Indonesian president increasing military influence in civilian life

Indonesian president Prabowo is increasing the influence of the military in civilian life — recruiting large numbers of "military" personnel to do civilian jobs such as farming.

He claims Indonesia needs a larger army, but why would that be? Unless Indonesia and China head into a confrontation, which does not seem to be developing, I see no reason why a larger army would be needed. Supposing it ever is someday needed, "military" battalions for agriculture, pharmaceutical production and conversion of plantations will not be of much help in a war.

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